Unit name | Dissertation |
---|---|
Unit code | PHEDM1002 |
Credit points | 60 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52) |
Unit director | Dr. Li |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School for Policy Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
This unit aims to teach students to design and conduct quality research in the field of nutrition, physical activity and public health. This can involve planning and completing:
- An empirical research study (by collecting quantitative or qualitative primary data, or both) or; - A secondary data analysis (by identifying appropriate secondary data sources) or; - A systematic review (by identifying and synthesising appropriate sources of evidence) or; - A mixed methods study.The dissertation should demonstrate that the student understands how to: frame research questions, critique, draw upon and develop appropriate conceptual and theoretical approaches, develop and apply an appropriate research strategy, analyse data, interpret the findings and draw conclusions that are integrated within wider academic debates.
On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to demonstrate:
Students will be expected to submit a written research proposal for their project, after which they will be assigned a dissertation supervisor. Thereafter, individual study will be supported by regular, one-to-one negotiated academic supervision meetings.
A dissertation skills workshop, including tips on project management and writing, will be delivered to support student progress in their dissertation. Students must have an acceptable research ethics proposal approved before beginning their research.
The dissertation will be in the form of an academic paper for a scientific journal in the field of nutrition, physical activity and public health and will contribute 100% of the total unit mark.
The dissertation will be a minimum of 8,000 words and up to 10,000 words (reflecting a model of longer journal articles; additional appendices, of supporting materials, will not count towards the word limit).
The dissertation should demonstrate that the intended learning outcomes of the unit are met.
To be negotiated with the supervisor.